The holiday season is a time to celebrate, give thanks and to spend time with family and friends. But, for some, the holiday season can be stressful.
Here are some tips to help keep you and your loved ones safe, healthy and ready to enjoy the holiday season.
- Monitor children and pets. Keep potentially dangerous toys, food, drinks, household items, and other objects out of their reach.
- Practice fire safety. Don’t leave fireplaces, space heaters, food cooking on stoves, or candles unattended.
- Christmas Tree Safety. Fresh trees are less likely to catch fire; look for a tree with needles that are not shedding easily. Whether your tree is real or artificial, turn tree lights off when you leave your house and when you go to bed.
- Wash your hands often and cover your mouth when you cough to help prevent the spread of germs.
- Stay warm. Cold temperatures can cause health problems especially in infants and older adults.
- Manage stress. Stress is often heightened during the holidays. Avoid overcommitting and overspending. Create a budget and stick to it.
- Don’t drink and drive or let others drink and drive.
- Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke.
- Handle and prepare food safely. Wash hands and surfaces often to avoid cross-contamination.
- Eat healthy. Try to eat when you are truly hungry rather than when you’re bored, stressed, or simply because the food is there and will taste good!
- Take time for yourself. Exercise, learn to meditate, go for a walk.
- Get a good night’s sleep.
If you are feeling overwhelmed by the holidays, take a break, and remember it is ok to say no or to ask for help. With some careful planning, you and your loved ones can enjoy a safe and healthy holiday season!
Work cited:
Fire Safety Tips for Your Christmas Tree. June 2016 <http://www.christmastreeassociation.org>
12 Ways to Have a Healthy Holiday Season. December 2017 http://www.cdc.gov